Counterfeit Gods

Timothy Keller’s Counterfeit Gods is an exposition of the way in which we take various aspects of our lives and turn them into all-consuming idols. The consequence of such single-minded devotion is inevitably unbalance and unhappiness.

Thus far I agree, as I follow a “all things in moderation” approach to life. Beyond this, however, the book takes a very Christian evangelical angle, arguing that one should discard false idols and instead focus one’s life on God. This is very well if one accepts Christian belief, but as an atheist I find the argument to be somewhat ironic: Nothing should be the absolute purpose of your life, and to cure this you must make God your life’s purpose.

Religious debate aside, the books is not badly written and contains some valuable insights into life at large.